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Two types of
fully licensed physicians are recognized in the United States:
D.O.s (osteopathic) and M.D.s (allopathic). Both D.O.s and M.D.s
can practice medicine in fully accredited and licensed hospitals
and medical centers.
Similarities
- Education:
Both attend four-year medical schools and have similar clinical
training and national and state licensing examinations.
- Specialties:
Both may be primary care practitioners (e.g., family practice,
pediatrics) or specialists (e.g., surgery, cardiology).
- Licensing:
Both are fully licensed to prescribe medications and perform
surgery.
Differences
- Education:
Osteopathic medical education places a strong emphasis on primary
medical care. Osteopathic physicians are trained to be complete
physicians first, then as specialists if they choose.
- Diagnosis:
Osteopathic physicians receive specialized training about the
musculoskeletal system, which provides them a better understanding
of how injuries and illnesses affect different regions of the
body. This "whole-body" view allows D.O.s to take
a "holistic" approach to medical care.
- Emphasis:
Osteopathic physicians are taught to emphasize prevention of
injury or illness in addition to treating existing medical problems.
Dr. Andrew
Taylor Still founded Osteopathic medicine over 125 years ago.
He identified the musculoskeletal system as a key element of health.
His practice focused on the importance of preventive medicine,
such as eating properly and keeping fit. Today, the D.O. often
acts as a teacher and coach, helping patients identify and evaluate
their personal health lifestyles, take more responsibility for
their well-being, and change unhealthy patterns.
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